60th Congress, \ 
1st Session. \ 



SENATE. 



S Document 
I No. 456. 



CP:LEBKATI()N of three hi NDKKDTH ANiMVEKSARY 
OF DISCOVERY^ OF LAKE ( HAMPLAIN. 



MESSAGE 



PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, 



TKANs.MrrriN( 



A REPORT OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE SUBMITTING A COM- 
MUNICATION FROM THE STATES OF VERMONT AND NEW YORK 
RELATING TO THE CELEBRATION OF THE THREE HUNDREDTH 
ANNIVERSARY OF THE DISCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 



April '60, 1908.— Read; referred U> tlie Committee on Foreiun Relations and ordered 
to l)e printed. 



To tlir Senate and Iloaxr of Rrin-enentat'tiSi-: 

I transmit herewith a report V)y the Secretary of State submitting 
a formal communication from the States of Vermont and New York, 
made to the Go\ ernraent of the United States thiough the Department 
of State, to the end that the Federal Government may make provision 
for national participation in the proposed celebration of the three 
hundredth anniversary of the discovery of Lake Champlain. 

As recommended by the Seci'etary "of State, the memorial is laid 
before the Congress with a view to appropriate action. 

Theoik)re Rooskvelt, 

The White Holsk, ApnJ W. 1008. 



The President : 

I transmit herewith a joint memorial of the States of Vermont and 
New York relating- to the celebration of the three hundredth anniver- 
sary of the discovery of Lake Champlain. 

This memorial is a formal communication from the States of Vermont 
and New York, made to the Government of the United States throug-h 
the Department of State, to the end that the Federal Government may 
make provision for national participation in the proposed celebration. 

I respectfully recommend that the memorial be laid before (yong-ress 
with a view to appropriate action. 

Respectfully submitted. 

Elihu Root. 

Department of State, 

Wa-^hiru/tov, April 20, 1008. 



'U^i 



ANNIVERSARY OF DISCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 



Joint Memorial of thk States of VEKiioisT and New York IIelating to the 
Tercentenary of the Discovekv of Lake Champlain. 

To the Honorable Elihu Root. 

Secretary of State, Wasliiiifjlon, D. V. 
Dear Sir: The Lake Champlain Tercentenary commissions of Vermont and 
New York, acting jointly, beg leave to sul)mit herewith a brief recital of the 
steps taken to provide a titting celebration in Jnly, 1909, of the three hundredth 
anniversary of the discovery of Lake Champlain and of the territory of the 
present States of Vermont and New York by Samuel Champlain, the French 
explorer. 

action on the part of the state of VERMONT. 

The movement looking toward the celebration of the three hundredth anni- 
versary of the discovery of Lake Champlain was inaugurated by the introduc- 
tion and adoption by the Vermont legislature of /a joiijt resolution approved 
November 15, 1900, by his excellency Governor Fletcher D. Proctor, the text of 
which follows: 

Joint resolution for the appointment of a commission for the three hundredth 
anniversary of the discovery of Lake Champlain. 

Whereas the discovery of Lake Champlain was an 6tfent in history fully as 
important as many others that have been recognized by various States, as well 
as by the National Government; and 

Whereas the three hundredth anniversary of such discovery will occur on 
July 4, 1909: It is hereby 

Resolved by the senate and house of representatives, That this event should 
be observed in a fitting manner, and to bring about an observance commen- 
surate with its importance there is hereby provided a commission, consist- 
ing of the governor, who shall be chairman ex officio, and six other members, 
to be appointed by the governor before January 1, 1907, one of whom shall 
act as secretary. Said commission is hereby empowered to adopt such meas- 
ures as in its judgment may be reasonable or necessary to bring about the 
fitting observance of such event. And as the interests of the State of New 
York and the Dominion of Canada are allied with those of Vermont in such 
observance, it is hereby recommended that said commission confer with the 
proper authorities of New York and Canada to ascertain what action they or 
either of them will take with Vermont in making the observance of this event 
successful and a credit to all, and that the commission report the result of 
such efforts, together with its recommendations, to the general assembly of 1908. 

The members of Said commission shall receive no pay for services rendered 
except their necessary expenses. 

The secretary of said commission shall be allowed such sum for services 
rendered as may be fixed by said commission. 

The auditor of accounts is hereby authorized to draw an order for such 
expenses and allowance when approved by the governor. 

Thomas C. Cheney, 
Speaker of the House of Representatives. 
George H. Prouty, 
President of the Senate. 

Approved November 15, 1906. 

Fletcher D. Proctor, 

Governor. 

State of Vermont, Office of the Secretary of State: 

I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of a joint resolution en- 
titled " Joint resolution for the appointment of a commission for the three hun- 
dredth anniversary of the discovery of Lake Champlain," approved November 
15, 1906, as appears by the files and records of this ofl3ce. 

Witness my signature and the seal of this office, at Moutpelier, this 22d day 
of February, 1907. 

[SEAL.] Frederick G. Fleetwood, 

Secretary of State. 



3 



■it 



ANNIVERSARY OF DISCOVERY OP LAKE CHAMPI.ATN. 3 

Acting in accordance with the foregoing resolution, Governor Proctor ap- 
pointed the following commission, of which he is ex otficio chairman: Fletcher 
D. Proctor, chairman. Proctor; Walter E. Howard, Middlebury ; Lynn M. Hays, 
Essex Junction; Horace W. Bailey, Newbnry ; IM. D. McMahon, Burlington; 
R. W. McCuen, Vergennes ; Walter H. Crockett, St. Albans. 

The commission organized by electing AValter E. Howard chairman pro 
tempore and Lynn M. Hays secretary. 

On March 23, 1907, committees were appointed to visit Albany, N. Y., and 
Ottawa, Canada, for the purpose of inviting the State and the Dominion to co- 
operate with Vermont in the proposed celebration. The committee to visit New 
York State ])resented the plan to his excellency Governor Hughes, and it met 
with his api)roval and was strongly indorsed by members of the New York 
legislature. 

At Ottawa the committee was received by Sir Wilfred Laurier, who enthusi- 
astically approved of the pi-oposed celebration and said he would be pleased 
to have his country well represented on the occasion and that an invitation from 
the Government of the United States would be cordially welcomed. 

September G. 1007, the two connnissions met at Hotel Champlain, Bluff Pomt, 
N. Y., and upon resolution the chairman of each commission appointed a sub- 
committee, one of its duties being to confer with the Secretary of State at 
Washington relative to the part France, Great Britain, and Canada should take 
in the proposed event. 

The visit of these subcommittees to the Secretary of State is more fully stated 
further on in this Joint memorial. 

It may be well to state that the members of the subcouunittee of the Vermont 
commission called on President Roosevelt, who approved of the project and 
promised to lend it his full support. 

Governor Proctor will in his retiring message next October bring the whole 
matter fully to the attention of the Vermont legislature, making at that time 
recommendations to the legislature. 

The report of the New York commission to the legislature, which sets forth 
the desires and intentions of that commission, is indorsed by the Vermont 
commission. 

ACTION ON THE PART OF NEW YORK STATE. 

The Lake Champlain Tercentenary Commission of New York State, created 
in April last by the legislature, was charged with the duty of conferring with 
a commission already existing representing the State of Vermont and with 
representatives of the Dominion of Canada, and to report to the legislature of 
1908 a plan for the proposed celebration. 

To this end various conferences have been held with representatives of 
Vermont. In September last members of the two commissions, including the 
governor of New York and the governor of Vermont, made a tour of inspection 
of historic points on Lake Champlain. On December 4. 1907, a subcommittee 
of the New York commission and members of the Vermont commission had 
the honor of a conference with the Secretary of State at Washington, with a 
view to enlisting the interest of the Federal Government in the proposed cele- 
bration. At a subsequent joint meeting of the New York and Vermont com- 
missions in Albany, resolutions were adopted in which it was directed that a 
suitalile memorial be submitted to the Federal Government through the Depart- 
ment of State, requesting that the Federal Government make suitable appro- 
priation for the proposed celebration and that it be asked to invite therein the 
participation of Canada, and also to invite and entertain representatives of the 
Republic of France, the Kingdom of Great Britain, and the Dominion of Canada. 

Governor Hughes in his annual message to the legislature dwelt upon the i»ro- 
posed celebration with approval, and recommended it to the legislature for a 
suitable appropriation. 

The New York State commission, after various conferences, drafted a report 
to the legislature, of which a copy is hereto appended, and to which we beg to 
refer you for a more detailed statement of the action of the New York commis- 
sion, 'incorporated in the report is a draft of a bill which has been introduced 
in the New York legislature providing for the creation of a permanent com- 
mission to carry out the purpose of the act and making a suitable appropriatimi 
therefor. The amount recommended by the senate finance committee is $50,000, 
or so much thereof as may be necessary, in place of $100,000. as stated in the 
first draft of the bill attached hereto. 



ANNIVERSARY OF DISCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 



In \U'\\ of the inteniational cliaractci- of tbe event which it is proposed to cele- 
brate. ycHir connnissions feel that it is desirable to inclnde in the celebration as 
guest's* of the I'uited States, representatives of France. Great Britain, and 
Canada It is also especially desired, and your memorialists most respectfully 
ask, that suitable provision be made for attendance at said celebration, or par- 
ticipation therein, of such civil, military, and naval rei)resentatives of the Gov- 
ernment of the rnited States as may be hereafter desij,'nated. 

In accordance with the sn.irgestion made on the occasion of the visit of the 
subcommittee representing: the two States, that the matter of Inviting and enter- 
taining representatives of France. (Ji-eat BiMtain. and Canada be under the direc- 
tion of the Dejiartnient of State, and that the Fnited States Government make 
adequate provision therefor, we, the umlersigned members of the two commis- 
sions, hereby respectfully request that you lay this matter before the President 
and Congress of the li'iited States, with such recouuueudation as may seem 
advisable. . ^ ^ 

In the hope that action may be taken at the present session of < ongress, we 
do respectfully subscrilie ourselves. 



Flet( HER 1). Proctor. 
Walter E. Howard, 
Lynn M. Hays, 
Horace W. P.ailev. 
M. I>. McMaiion. 
U. W. :SkCA^f. 
Walter H. Crockett, 
iiiiniisnioiirrs for the 

Sidle of ] rniioiit. 



Alkany. Aitril 10. I'JOS. 



Charles K. Huches. 
Lewis Stuyvesant Chanler. 
J. W. Wausworth. Jr. 
Henry W. Hhx. 
John C. K. Taylor. 
Alonson T. Dominy. 
James A. Foley. 
P'rank S. Witherree. 
John H. P.ooth. 

('oiiniii.ssioiKr.'< for the 

Sfiif( of Xciv ^ ork. 



Report of tiie Laki 



A.MPLAiN Tercentenary Commission of New York 
State. 



(Transmitteil to the legislature .March 2o. 1908.) 

State of New York. 
Jh i<eiuit<\ March 23, 1908. 
To the leyishiturc of the State of New York: 

I have the honor to submit herewith the rei)ort of the Lake Champlain ter- 
centenary commission of New York State. 

Charles F. Hughes. 

Chairtnan. 

Report. 

To the Legislature of the State of ^'cu■ York: 

The Lake Champlain Tercentenary Commission of New York State respect- 
fully submits the following report of action taken and suggestions for pro- 
posed action in the matter for which the Commission was created. 

April 15. 1907. Mr. Hill offered in the Senate the following concurrent res- 
olution, authorizing the appointment of a commission to confer with com- 
missioners from Vermont and the Dominion of Canada in relation to the 
observance of the tercentenary of Lake Champlain : 



resolution creating the commission. 

•■ Whereas the discovery of Lake Champlain by Samuel Champlain, on July 
4, 1609. antedates the discovery by the whites of any other portion of the 
territory now comprising the State of New York, and was an event worthy 
of commemoration in the annals of the Stitte and nation ; and 

" Whereas the State of Vermont, in 1906. appointed a commission, consist- 
ing of the governor of that State and six other commissioners, to confer with 
commissioners to be api)ointed on the part of New York and the Dominion of 
Canada, to ascertain what action, if any. ought to l>e taken l»y such States 



ANNIVERSARY OF DISCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMFLAIN, 5 

and the Douiiiiiou of Canada for tbe observauce of such tercentenary : There- 
fore be it 

Resolved (if the assembly concur) that a commission, consisting of the 
governor, who shall be chairman, ex-officio, two citizens to be designated 
by him, the lieutenant-governor, the speaker of the assembly, two senators, 
to be designated by the lieutenant-governor, and two members of the as.sembly, 
to be designated by the speaker, be appointed to represent the State of New 
York at such conference, with power to enter into negotiations with the com- 
missioners representing the State of Vermont and those representing the Do- 
minion of Canada for the observance of such tercentennary, and that such 
commission report the results of their negotiations, together with their recom- 
mendations thereon, to the legislature of 1908. 

" That such commissioners receive no pay for their services and that their 
necessary exitenses be paid by the State, but such payment shall not exceed 
the amount expressly appropriated thei'efor." 

The al)ove resolution was adopted by the senate April 1."). 1007. and by the 
assembly concurring without amendment April 16, 1907. 

For the expenses of the conunissioners appointed under this resolution. 
$2,000. or so much thereof as may be necessary, was appropriated by chapter 
578 of the laws of 1907. 

Governor Hughes appointed as niemltevs of said commission the Hon. Frank 
S. Witherbee. of Port Henry, and the Hon. .Tohn H. Booth, of Plattsburg. 

The lieutenant-governor designated the Hon. Henry W. Hill, of Buffalo, and 
the Hon. .Tohn C. R. Taylor, of Middletown. 

The speaker of the assembly named the Hon. Alonson T. Dominy, of Beek- 
mantown. and the Hon. .Tames A. Foley, of New York City. 

.lOINT MF.KTINf! OF THK XlOW YORK AX1> VIORMONT COMMISSIONS. 

. At a joint meeting of the Vermont and New York commissions, held at Hotel 
Chamiilain. BInff Point. September 6, 1907, His Excellency Governor Hughes 
presiding. Governor Proctor, of Vermont, and six members of the Vermont 
commission were present, as were also all of the New York commission, except 
the lieutenant-governor, the speaker, and the Hon. Frank S. Witherbee. absent 
in Europe. Mr. Victor H. Paltsits. State historian of New York, also attended 
by invitation. Mr. Frank H. Severance, of Buffalo, was chosen secretary of 
the New York State commission. 

The chairman stated the general purpose of the commissions and the desir- 
ability of reaching definite suggestions for c.-irrying out the work. On motion 
of Senator Hill a subcommittee of three was created, to be apiiointed by the 
chair, the governor being chairman ex-officio of the said subconnnittee. who 
should confer with the Secretary of State at Washington as to advisable steps 
to be taken in regard to bringing the proposed celebration to the attention of 
the Ilepublie of France, the Ivingdom of Great Britain, and the Dominion of 

The subcommittee sul)sequeutly appointed consisted of Hon. ITtMiry W. Hill, 
chairman, Hon. Frank S. Witherbee. and Hon. John H. Booth. 

A TOUR OF IXSPKCTION. 

A tour of inspection of historic sites on Eake Chainpl;iin having been de- 
termined upon, members of the two commissions, including the governor of 
New York, the governor of Vermont, and a few guests, left Hotel Champlaiii 
on the mornini;- of September 7. 1907. on two yachts. 

As thev passed northward places of historic interest were ponited out. and 
every island, every bay and headland was found to have its associations. The 
attention of your 'commission was especially directed at the outset to Valcour 
Island, just off the New York shore near Plattsburg. This island, now in part 
owned by the Federal Government, has played an important part in three wars. 
On October 13. 1759, Captain Loring, of Amherst's army, pursued a French 
schooner and three sloops, under the shelter of Valcour. Two of the sloops 
were here sunk, and the third was run aground by her crew. The naval en- 
gagement of October 11. 1776, between the American and British fleets, was oft 
Valcour. which was also within the theater of the engagement of September 11, 
1814. 



6 ANNIVERSARY OF DISCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 

Other islands in this part of the lake share the history of these events. It 
was from Schuylers Island, October 12, 1776, that Benedict Arnold wrote to 
General Gates, announcing the loss of two vessels of the American fleet. 

The commissioners crossed the bay which was the scene of Macdonough's 
brilliant victory of September 11, 1814, in which the American loss was over 
200 and the British loss over 300. Special note was taken of Crab Island, 
where the Americans placed their sick, September 7 to 10, and where the con- 
valescent soldiers built and manned a battery. Here is the burial ground where 
were interred the soldiers and marines killed in the battle of September 11, 
1814. 

Just beyond we passed Cumberland Head, with associations not only of the 
war of 1812, but of the Revolution. Here it was, in June, 1777, that Burgoyne's 
army rested for several days. 

Farther north, on the New York side. Point au Fer was passed. This famous 
point, visited by many of the early expeditions, was fortified by General Sulli- 
van in 1776. In June of the next year it was occupied by Burgoyne; and the 
British remained in possession until 1788, after the close of the war. 

Near the north end of the lake, among other iilaces noted by your conmiission, 
is Windmill Point, so. named from a mill and settlement built there by the 
French in 1731. The Canadian boundary line runs about 2i miles north of this 
point. An interesting association relates to a visit made to this place in the 
autumn of 1766 by Sir Henry Moore, governor of New York colony, and Sir 
Guy Carleton. governor of the Province of Quebec. Their object was fo ascer- 
tain where the boundary ran which had be<^u fixed by royal order at the forty- 
fifth degree. "After encountering many dirticulties." the governor of New York 
subsequently wrote to the lords of trade (November 7, 1766), "we fixed the 
limits on the River Sorell (now known as the Sorell or Richelieu, the outlet of 
Lake Champlain), about 2i miles below Windmill Point, which is farther to the 
northward than we imagined to find it from the observations which were said 
to be made there by the French some few years ago." 

During this visit of the two governors at Windmill Point they were visited by 
a number of French gentlemen from Quebec, who sought a confirmation of their 
rights in seigneuries granted to them before the conquest of Canada and now 
found to extend south of the Canadian boundary line. The adjustment of these 
old seigneurial grants, and questions relating thereto, ran through many years, 
and constitutes a considerable chapter in the international history of this 
region. The boundary line was fixed by an order in council (Report of the 
Lords of the Committee of Privy Council) August 12, 1768. 

Your commissioners made their first landing at Sandy Point, on Isle la Motte, 
the site of the first French settlemtmt in the valley ; thence, after dinner at the 
home of the Hon. Nelson W. Fisk. Isle la Motte, going to Burlington, where the 
commissions were the guests of the Burlington Commercial Club and of the 
Ethan Allen Club. Various points of interest in the city and vicinity were 
visited, and the following day as many of the commissioners as could arrange 
went by steamer to Crown Point and afterwards to Ticonderoga, where the sites 
and ruined fortifications were inspected. 

CONFERENCE WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE. 

On December 4. 1907. the Hon. Henry W. Hill and the Hon. Frank S. Wither- 
bee, of the above-named subcommittee, visited Washington, where :Messrs. Lynn 
M. Hays and Walter H. Crocket, of the Vermont commission, joined them in a 
visit to the Secretary of State, the Hon. Elihu Root, with whom a conference 
was held, at which there were also present, besides the commissioners. Senators 
Proctor and Dillingham and Representative David J. Foster. 

The conmiissioners laid the proposed plan of celebration and commemoi'ation 
before the Secretary of State, with a view of ascertaining the action which 
he would approve in the matter on the part of the Government of the United 
States. The Secretary inquired what New York State and "N^'rmont were 
likely to do in the way of appropriations: and was informed that both States 
were expected to make suitable appropriations, and that it was deemed im- 
portant that representatives of the <ioveniments of France,- of (ireat Britain 
and Canada be invited through the Federal Government to be present as its 
guests at such celebration. 

Secretary Root expressed his approval. In his view the Federal Government 
might with propriety invite such representatives; and he stated his willingness 
to recommend to the President that a suitable appropriation be made for their 
entertainment. 



ANNIVERSARY OF DISCOVERY OF LAKE ( llAMPLAIX. 7 

The Secretary of State further expressed to the coruiiiissiouers his most 
cordial approval of the proposed celebration, and deep interest in it. especially 
on account of • its international features and because of its historical character, 
illustrating as it would the period of discovery and settlement. :ind the devel- 
opment of American institutions. 

A* TlOX TAK?:N at ALBANY DKCKMUKR 21. IllO". 

At a .joint inceTinj: of tIu- New York and Vermont commissions, held at 
Albany, December 21, 1907, the following resolutions, which had been adopted 
by the special subcommittee and reported to a meeting of the wliole connnis- 
sion at the executive mansion. Governor Hughes presiding, were adopted: 

Resolved. That it is the judgment of the subcommittee of the Lake Cham- 
plain Tercentenary Commission that the tercentenary discovery of Lake 
Champlain and the historic events following during the colonial and revolu- 
tionary periods, and also of the war of 1812. be celebrated in an appropriate 
and fitting manner in July, 1909. in the valley of Lake Champlain, wdth ap- 
propriate exercises to be determined upon by the commission having that 
matter in charge. 

Rcfiolrril. That a permanent memorial to commemorate the discovery by 
Samuel Champlain be erected at some point in the Champlain Valley; and that 
rhe State of New York make suitable appropriation for such celebration, and 
also a suitable appropriation toward defraying the cost of said memorial, 
sharing therein with the State of Vermont and any other contributors thereto. 

Resolved, That a suitable memorial be prepared on the part of the com- 
mission of the State of New York and on the part of the commission of the 
State of Vermont, if they concur, to be presented through the Secretary of 
State to the Federal Government, requesting that the Federal Government, 
through the Department of State, or a connnissiou. as it may decide, participate 
in the proposed celebration: and that the Federal (Government h" i-equested 
to make suitable appropriation therefor: and that the Federal (Government 
be requested to invite the participation of Canada and also to invite and enter- 
tain representatives of the Republic of France, the King of Great I'.ritain, and 
the DomiJiion of Canada. 

SVNI>RV SU(;(.K.STIOXS. 

In free discussion ahiong the members of the commissions it was developed 
that in the judgment of the commissions the proposed celebration should 
include exercises to b? held at Ticonderoga, Crown Point, Plattsburg, Bur- 
lington. Isle la Motte. and. if found feasible, at a eoint-nient point in Canada, 
Other suggestions were : 

That on Sunday, July 4. 1909, religious services of a character appropriate 
to the anniversary be held, if possible, at suitable points, especially at Cliff 
Haven, at Isle la Motte, and in the cathedral at Burlington, under The auspices 
of the Roman Catholic Church. 

Also, that said celebration shall include such musical features as may be 
found desirable, and. if possible, an aqtiatic pageant, with fireworks, electrical 
disiilav and other appropriate features. It is understood and expected that 
the anuunl me -tinL's of regattas of canoe, motoi- l)oat. or yacht clubs may be 
held at this time on Lake Champlain. contributing attractive features to the 
celebration. „ , , ^ ^, u. j., 

It was further suggested, with the approval of the members present, that the 
fraternal orders represented in the Champlain ^'alley be invited to join in the 
celebration and to appear in regalia in apjiropriate parades as opportunity may 
offer. 

Vfter soni" discussion as to the practicability of participation by patriotic 
societies, it was voted that the secretary of the New York commission procure 
data relative to the patriotic societies represented in the Champlain Valley 
and submit it at a future meeting of the commission, that the commission may 
act with morh' adequate information on this subject. 

A MEMORIAL VOLUMK KKCOMMENDKI). 

A further suggestion, which appeals with force to your commission, is that 
there should be provided for. to be published by the State of New York, a suit- 
able memorial volume, to be issued as soon as practicable after the celebration, 
which shall contain a L'eueral report of your commission: a report of the cele- 



8 ANNIVERSARY OF DISCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 

bration and memorial exercises: a suitable historical sli;etcli of tlie ("Uamplain 
region; a bibliography of the worlds of Champlain and worlvs relating to him; a 
cartogiapliy of Lake C'haniplain. and such other features as may be determined 
upon. 

APrROVAL OF THE F.XECl'TIVE EXPRESSED IX THE ANNUAL MESSAGE TO THe' 
LEGISLATURE. 

That the governor of New York State heartily approves of the proposed cele- 
bration is shown in his messase transinitte<l to the lesrislature on January 1 
last. 

■' Fitting ])repnratitiu."' he said. " should he made foi- the celebration in the 
year lOO!) of the three hundredth anniversary of the discovery of Lake Cham- 
plain. This." he adds. " is an event of interstate and international importance, 
and a commission representing this State is cooi)erating with a Vermont com- 
mission in perfecting suitable plans. It is hoped that the Federal Government 
will give assistance, and that through its otiices the go\erninent of tlu' Dominion 
of Canada and tlie Republic of France will l»e invited to participate." 

THE VERMONT rOMJriSSU)N. 

The ^'crnlont coniniission. it should l)e noti'd. was created by the act of the 
Vermont legislature, session of 100(j-7. It is otticialjy designated '" 'fhe Lake 
Champlain Tercentenary Commission of Vermont." and is constituted as fol- 
lows: Chairman, his excellency the Hon. I-'letcher I). I'roctor. governor of A'er- 
niont : chairman pro tempore, Walter E. Floward. Middlebury; secretary, Lynn 
M. Hays. Xo. 1!)(; Main street. Burlington: and Messrs. Horace W. Bailey. 
Newbury ; M. D. McMahon. Burlington ; R. W. McCuen. A'ergennes, and Walter 
H. Crocket, vSt. Albans. This commission, it may be observed, is a permanent 
organization for the acconinlislnnent of the olt.ject for wliicli it was created, 
with power to enter into and perfect an-angenients with a similar commission 
reiiresenting New York State when it shall have been created, and to plan, 
sni)erintend, and carry out the iiroposed celebration and erectit^n of a memorial 
on the part of Vermont. 



As the public, not only in New Yoi'k State and N'eruiont. but in neighboring 
States as well, have learned of these preliminary i)reiiarations, great interest 
has been shown in the matter. 

In \'erniout the press very generally has joined in expressions of ajiproval of 
the project. Tin* N'erniont coniniissicMi has been promitt to signify its readiness 
to cooperate in every way possible with New York. Its subconunittee. consist- 
ing of the Hon. Walter K. Howard, chairman. Messrs. Lynn M. Hays, and Walter 
H. Crocket, have reported a resolution in which they " recommend to the Ver- 
mont conuuission th;it the three hundredth anniversary of the discovery of Lake 
Chaini)]ain by Samuel Ciiamiilain be celebrated in .-i manner fitting the occasion 
by the State of Vermont, acting in conjunction Avith the State of New York." 
The full ^'ermout conuuission have also jtlanned to organize a publicity bureau 
foi' the ]iuriiose of creating sentiment in the interests of the proposed cele- 
bration. 

In New York State, also, the press in many sections has shown marked inter- 
est in and approval of the i)t-oject. So. too. have various [latriotir and historical 
societies. 

ACTION OF PATRIOTIC SOCIETIES. 

The following resolutions, adopted by the Daughters of the American lievolu- 
fion, Buffalo Chapter, oii November 22, 1007. were officially indorsed by the New 
York State conference. National Society Daughters of "the American Revolu- 
tion, and in substance have been adopted by several other of the patriotic 
societies having cha[»ters in this State; 

Whereas Buffalo Chapter. Daughters of the American Itevolution. has learned 
with deep interest of the preliminary steps taken by the State of New York 
regarding a contemiilated celebration jointly with the State of Vermont and 
Province of Quebec of the discovery and flr.st exploration of Lake Champlain, 
said suggested celebration to occur on the three hundredth anniversary of the 
discovery, in July. 1909 ; and 



AXNIVEKSARY OF DISCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMPLAIK. 9 

Whereas we regard this discovery and the events flowing rherefrom as of 
paramount importance in the history of this State. In the colonial, as iu the 
revolutionary period and that of the war of 1812, the valley of Lake Champlain 
was the theater of many stirring operations and decisive engagements. With 
its beantiful waters, its hills and headlands, its storied islands, and ruined 
fortifications the annals and traditions of the Daughters of the American Revo- 
lution are intimately woven : Therefore 

Resolved. That we, members of the Buffalo Chapter, Daughters of the Amer- 
ican Revolution, hereby urge upon the legislature of the State of New York 
the desirability of heartily indorsing the proposed plan of celebration. 

Resolved, That in our view it is especially desirable that in connection with 
the proposed celebration one or more of the historic sites in the Champlain 
Valley be acquired by the State of New York for the suitable preservation of 
its landmarks and the enjoyment of the public : or that, if this should not prove 
feasible, that the erection of some permanent memorial be included in the 
action of the State. 

The following letter from the secretary of the vSociety of Colonial Wars in 
the State of New York, further indicates the interest that has been aroused 
and the cooperation which awaits the action of your honorable body : 

Society of the Colonial Wars in the State of New York, 

Office of the Secretary, Room 62, 
-}.T Willidiii i<trrrf. Ncu- York. February .iO. 190S. 
Hon. Henky' W. Hii.i., 

Chairman of the Siibcoitiniittee, Xcir ^Ork Lake Clianiplain 

Tercentenary Vo)nniission. Senate Chamber. Albanii. Y. Y. 
Dear Sir: I have the honor to transmit to you the following resolution 
adopted by this society through the council : 

Whereas the Society of Colonial Wars in the State of New York has been 
informed of the proposed celebration .iointly by the States of New York and 
Vermont and the Province of Quebec in commemoration of the discovery of 
Lake Champlain, to occur on the three hundredth anniversary tln-roof in July, 
1909: Now, therefore, be it 

Resohed. That the Society of Colonial Wars in the State of Xew York hereby 
declares that it is in hearty sympathy with such proiiosed celebration and that it 
is its intention to hold a reunion at Lake Chaini)lain in connection therewith in 
July, 1900, and tlial it appoint a committee to confer as to the nianagenicnt 
therefor. 

Yours, very truly. Henry Cansevoort Sanford, 

Secretary. 

Other organizations as well, especially the historie-al and j)atriotic societies 
represented in the Champlain N'alley, have expressed their ardent interest in 
the project and willingness t<) cooperate as may be desired. 

inSTORU IMPORTANCE OF THE CHAMPLAIN REGION. 

Your hou<n'able bod.v are familiar in general with the historic importance of 
the region in which it is proposed to hold this celebration and erect a memorial. 
It may be permitted, however, on the part of your commission to direct especial 
attention in this repoit to a few features of its history, which endow the Cham- 
plain Valley with extraordinary imimrtance iu the annals of New York State. 

The entrance into the valley which now bears his name by the great explorer, 
Samuel Champlain. in July, 1609. constitutes the o])ening of the first chapter in 
the history of New York State. 

It antedated by some months the discovery and exploration of the Hudson 
River, and it resulted in a sequence of events extending over a century and a 
half, in delivering the region which is now the great Commonwealth of New 
York from its condition of aboriginal darkness. After Champlain came the 
missionary, and with him and after him there came the trader; and presently 
from Lake Champlain to the Niagara River the power of France was estab- 
lished throughout New York State. 

Your commission would call your particular attention to the extraordinary 
significance of the anniversary which it is desired to celebrate. 

In discovering the lake that bears his name. Champlain also discovered the 
region that became New York State. 



10 ANNIVERSARY OF DISCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 

He was the first white mau to behold any portion of our State or to set foot 
therein. 

His visit in July, 1609, was not only the beginning of recorded history in 
New York State, but of a new era for the Western Continent. 

FIRST CHRISTIAN WORSHIP IN VERMONT. 

For many years after this initial voyage the waters of the Champlain Valley 
were the highway of many expeditions notable in colonial history. None was 
more notable than that which in the summer of 1666 erected on Isle la Motte 
the old Fort St. Anne and set up there the first Christian altar in what is now 
the State of Vermont. Throughout the following years of Indian warfare many 
a desperate enterprise occurred in this valley : and later, as the English colo- 
nists to the south found themselves in opposition to the power of France in 
Canada, the passing years saw an endless succession of war expeditions up and 
down the valley. 

CROWN POINT ANn TICONDEROGA. 

Toward the end of the period of French control of the Champlain region, in 
1731, the French made their most southern fortifications at what is now known 
as Crown Point. When your commission visited this historic site it found, in a 
most interesting state of preservation, not only the ruins of British military 
constructions, but of the earlier French outlines. The territory covered by these 
landmarks, or identified with them, passed from the ownership of New York 
State to Union and Columbia colleges. The property was partitioned in 1812, 
and in 1828 the trustees of Columbia College deeded the property to Sylvester 
Churchill. It subsequently passed through various hands and is now owned by 
Mr. Fred Nadeau, who resides in the neighborhood. 

Similarly at Ticonderoga, where your commission carefully inspected the 
ruins, one finds reminders alike of American, of British, and of French occu- 
pancy. The title of Ticonderoga may be said to have been successively vested 
in the Indian aborigines, in the French down to 1759. in the English to 1775, 
with changing fortunes to the end of the Revolution: then (after perhaps a 
period of Federal control), in the State of New York, the regents of the univer- 
sity, and Columbia and Union colleges. In ISIS Mr. William F. Pell purchased 
the property of some 500 acres, including the old ruins and fortifications, from 
the two colleges mentioned, since which date it has been in the possession of 
his family, the ownership at present being vested in five of his descendants. 

HISTORIC ASSOCIATIONS. 

That the jilaces included in the proposed celebration .-ire rich in historic as- 
sociation may be judged by citing a few of the many significant facts that might 
be presented. 

Sandy Point on Isle la Motte, near the outlet of the lake, holds the ruins of 
Fort St. Anne, the first spot in which mass was said in the )»resent State of 
Vermont. Its military associations under the French incluilc Tlic names of de 
Tracy, Levis. Bourlamaque, and Bougainville. Of even more significance it is 
in the annals of the Roman Catholic Church. The great missionary. Dollier de 
Casson, ministered to the garrison there in 1667 ; and later three famous 
Jesuits. Fathers Fremin, Piei-ron, and Bruyas. labored there. In 1892 the site 
of the old fort was bought by the Reverend de Goesbriand. first, bishop of Bur- 
lington, with a further purchase in 1895. A chapel with a statue of St. Atme. 
a great cross, and other structures were erected and blessed. It is a point o^ 
religious pilgrimage, and yearly on the Feast of St. Anne. July 26. thousands 
of devout pilgrims visit the spot to pray at the shrine, where are preserved 
relics of St. Anii(> and the Virgin. 

TN DEFENSE Of NEW YORK's RIGHTS. 

Of surpassing interest to the American student and an especial source of 
pride to the resident of New York State are the expeditions sent out by the 
feeble colony of New York to maintain their rights against the enci-oachments 
or mui'derous incursions of the French and Indian allies to the north. When 
these enemies burned Schenectady and slaughtered its inhabitants in February, 
1690, New York was stirred to a just retaliation: and it was through the Cham- 
plain Valley that .John Schuyler (grandfather of Philip Schuyler of Revolu- 



ANNIVEKSARY OF DISCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 11 

tionary fame) led his little force in a fleet of bark canoes against the enemy 
in Canada. His men were few, but they strucli a sturdy blow for the rights of 
New York. 

In 1691 Maj. Peter Schuyler led still another expedition against the hostile 
settlements, also by the Lake Champlain route. Numerous other expeditions 
followed in subsequent years. The annals of colonial New York show how time 
and time again Lake Champlain was both highway and battle ground where the 
rights of New York were defended and established. 

EXPLOITS IN THREE WARS. 

Lake Champlain throughout its whole length was the theater of important 
engagements and expeditions during the Revolutionary war. One needs but to 
mention Ethan Allen at Ticonderoga, Seth Warner at Crown Point, and Bene- 
dict Arnold at St. Johns. The battle which the latter fought October 11, 1776, 
near Valcour Island off Plattsburg, was one of the earliest naval battles in our 
history and one of the most heroic. The wreck of one of Arnold's vessels, the 
Royal Savage, still lies near Valcour Island. 

Plattsburg and Cumberland Bay are memorable for engagements in the war 
of 1812, both on land and lake. Here it was. September 11, 1814, that Mac- 
donough won a brilliant victory over the British squadron under Downie. It 
was one of the decisive engagements which brought that war to a close with 
credit to the Americans. 

As one passes up the lake to the south, the points of historic significance mul- 
tiply, and recall, besides the later wars, the old French war with the exploits of 
" Rogers the Ranger:" the defense of Ticonderoga by Montcalm (July 8. 1758), 
when Abercrombie stormed the works only to retire, crestfallen and exhausted, 
with a loss of some 2.000 men. The next year, again in July (2.3d) British arms 
at Ticonderoga under Amherst scored a victory, and virtually ended the domin- 
ion of the French in the valley: and British it remained until that :May morning 
(the 10th) in 1775, when Col. Ethan Allen made his sudden advent and de- 
manded its surrender " in the name of the Great Jehovah and the Continental 
Congress." 

Crown Point, the old P'rench Fort Frederic, is peculiarly a landmark to the 
student, for it was not only the southernmost outpost of the French of Canada, 
but as early as 1742 it was reported to be. " with the exception of Quebec, the 
strongest work held by the French in Canada." Furthermore, it was of great 
strategic importance, for it commanded the open highway between French and 
English North America. .VbandouiHl by the French in 1750, it was occupied by 
General Amherst (August 1), who gathered there 15,000 troops, and rebuilt it, 
stronger than before. During the Revolution the Americans held it until Bur- 
goyne with 7.000 troops invested it (June 27. 1777K when the Americans aban- 
doned it and retired to Ticonderoga. 

LANDMAHKS THAT SHOULD BE rRESERVED. 

That the iireservation of liistoric sites within our own bomidaries meets the 
approval of the American jieople and is a source of satisfaction to them is 
proved by innumerable instances. Never do we hear any advocacy in favor of 
abandoning sites already acquired and suitably cared for, either by State or 
natioh. But very often do we hear regret expressed that more sites, rich in 
historic associations, have not been thus acquired and safeguarded for the 
future. 

Of no points in New York State is this regret oftener expressed than in re- 
gard to Crown Point and Ticonderoga. Indeed, the scenic beauties of these 
places would win for them approval as public parks, even had they no historic 
associations. But in addition to their great natural beauty and comparative 
accessibility for large numbers of jieople. they offer to the visitor a wealth of 
historic association equaled by few if any other spots in onr State. 

The ruins at Prown Point are the best [treserved examples in America of the 
military constructions of their day and kind. 

WHAT IT IS PROPOSED TO CELEBRATE. 

In the view of your commission, the events above mentioned are a few of the 
many occurring in the valley of Lake Champlain which make it a worthy scene 
of a* notable memorial celebration. We would celebrate the tercentenary of its 



12 ANNIVERSARY OF DTSCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 

discovery; but that anniversnry. which falls July, 1009, is also a flttmg occasion 
for recailins. in speech and written record, in festival and in pageant, some of 
the other nation-bnildins: events in the three centuries of history of that region. 
For several of those events, as our report has shown, the month of July is the 
anniversary time, as well as of that first voyage through the lake by the ex- 
plorer. In" 1909. too. we would celebrate the one hundredth anniversary of the 
introduction of steam navigation on Lake Champlain. For more than a century 
this lake has been a part of New York State's system of improved waterways, 
and for eighty-nine years it has been joined by canal wirh tho canal system of 
the State and" the Hudson River. 

LAKE CHAMPLAIN IN LITERATURF,. 

One needs but turn to the literature of travel and description to find abundant 
records of the Champlain Valley in the narratives of travelers, especially Eu- 
ropeans. For many years, because of its beauty, its history, and its directness 
or convenience, the tour through Lake Champlain was a favorite one with for- 
eign as well as American travelers. Peter Kalm. the famous Swedish l»otanist. 
describes at length his visit to the valley in 1749. Isaac Weld and John Maude, 
English artists who traveled in America at the close of the eighteenth century, 
describe it at length. Dr. Timothy Dwight. the famous president of Yale Col- 
lege, made elaborate record of its conditions as he found them in 1798. 

Shortly after the close of the war of 1812. an English officer. Lieut. Francis 
Hall, of the Fourteenth Light Dragoons, traveled through the Champlain Valley 
and recorded with unusual detail the state of things as they then were. His 
narrative, printed in London in 1818. is a valued source of information for this 
particular period. 

In 1842 Charles Dickens enjoyed the beauties of flic lake tonr. and in his 
American Notes, in marked contrast to many of his critic.-il coinnieiits, he 
wrote in superlative praise of the steamboat service that he found on I^ake 
Champlain. 

PROGRESS OF THE CHAMPLAIN REGION. 

These and many other travelers who have written of Lake Champlain have 
left a valuable recoi-d of conditions as they were at different i)eriods. We have 
a picture of the lake when its shores were practically all wilderness. We see 
the bark canoe followed in turn by the rude baffciiu. the heavy sloo{). then by 
various sail craft: later by the pioneer steamboat, and finally by the era of 
modern travel and conveyance, whether for passenger or freight, whether for 
business or pleasure, with all the useful appliances of steam and electricity. 

Even more striking has been the evolution of the shores, where the remote 
pioneer settlements have been succeeded by scores of thriving conununities. 

The Champlain A'alley embraces a jiopulons and progressive portion of the 
Empire State. Our citizens in that valley have a just pride in its past, and are 
ready to promote in any way itossil)le such commemorative celebration as the 
State may defennine n])on. 

NEW YORK AND CHAMPLAIN. 

New York State has never erected any memorial to the gre.it explorer who 
first reached her shores. 

So far as your commission is aware, the only monument to Samuel Cham- 
plain tliat has been erected in the I'nifed States is the modest but creditable 
statue unveiled in the village of Champlain in this State on July 4. 1907. The 
exercises included impressive religious services, a parade, military drills, etc., 
and a formal unveiling of the statue. Thousands of visitors shared in the 
exercises, especially those of French- American ancestry, whose pride and 
enthusiasm indicate the ai'dent indorsal which may be exi)ecte<i from this 
source for the itroposed tercentenary celebration. 

CHAMPLAIN ANNIVKRSARIKS ELSEW HF.RK. 

Already the Dominion of Canada is preparing for a fitfing celebration the 
coming summer of the three hundredth anniversary of the founding of Quebec. 

Your honorable body will recall that the maritime provinces of Canada held 
a most successful celebration in June. 1904. of the three hundredth anniversary 



ANNIVERSAEY OF DISCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 18 

of the toundiiii; of Port Koyal :iiia other events iissoeiated with (JhaiiiphiiO; 
who first entered the Bay of Fuiuly in June, 1(i04. The nienioruil and festival 
featnres of this tercentenary celebration, so happily carried out by the people 
of New Brnnswiek. awakened very general interest! 

The events of ]f;OS. which the Dominion of Canada proposes to celebrate in 
1908, stimulate and extend this popular interest, and direct attention in a 
marked degree r<> the liistorical importance of those events of 160<t which we 
recommend for distinguished observance by New York State in ]001». 

SICNIFICANCE OF THE ANNIVERSARY OF ]009. 

Your connnissitin respectfully submit the foregoing report t<> the considei ation 
of the legislature of New York. The anniversary which we desire sliall be 
suitably observed has great .significance. Iuii>ortant as it is to the student of 
history, it makes a wider and strcmger appeal to that large body of our citizens 
whose forefathei-s fought in the wars of tlie Champlain region, or were among 
the pioneers who transformed it from the wilderness. 

But chief of all the considerations which we uriie upon your attention is 
the international character of the i)roi)Osed celebration. The histoi-y of the 
Champlain Valley belongs to the history of three great natious, whose cordial 
relations we believe will be promoted by the snitalile observance of tliis sig- 



nificant date, 



RECOM MEXDATION. 



To that end your commission, after careful investigation, reaches the con- 
clusion that the three hundredth anniversary of the discovery of Lake Cham- 
plain should be suitably celebrated by New York State; and to that end we 
respec-tfully recommend the enactment of the following bill: 

AN ACT To provide for the celebration of the tei-centenary of the discovery of Lake 
Champlain, the appointment of a comiuission, pnscrihins its powers and duties and 
making an apjiropriation therefor. 

The jtcoiilr of the Stair i,f Xcir ^ OrJ:. i<i>rcx(ntcil in sniatc and nsscinhlii. fh> 
iiuict as foUoirs: 

Section 1. The governor shall appoint five citizens of this State, the president 
pro tempore of the senate shall appoint three members of the senate, and the 
speaker of the asseml)ly shall appoint three members of the assembly, who shall 
constitute and be known as the connnission for the public celebratioii of the ter- 
centenary of the discovery of Lake Champlain. The members of such commis- 
sion shall serve without pay, but shall receive their necessary traveling and 
other expenses. 

Sec. 2. The object of such commission shall be to plan and conduct a public 
celebration of the tercentenary of the discovery of I.,ake Champlain by Samuel 
Champlain in the month of July, 1609. and such other historical events follow- 
ing such discovery as such commission may deem of general public interest or 
worthy of commemoration. 

Sec. 3. Such commission shall organize by electing a chairman, secretary, 
treasurer, and such other officers as it may deem necessary, and may adopt such 
rules and regulations as it may deem proper for carrying into effect the pur- 
poses for which it is created, and shall have power to enter into negotiations 
and coojierate with the State of Vermont, the Government of the United States, 
the r>oniinion of Canada, and the Province of Quebec, or either or any of them. 
and with the various patriotic and historical societies of the State and Nation, 
in such celebration and may appoint committees of citizens from the Aarioiis 
municiiialities of the State. Such commission shall also have the power, either 
by itself or in cooi)eration with the State of Vermont, the Government of the 
United States, the Donnnion of Canada, and the Province of Quebec, or any or 
either of them, to erect a suitable permanent memorial to the said Samuel 
Chami>lain in the valley of Lake Champlain. Such commission may also ap- 
point committees from its members and may employ such assistants as it may 
deem necessary, fix their compensation, and define their powers and duties 
within the provisions of this act. 

Sec. 4. Such commission shall audit and pay all bills and expenses incurred 
under this act and file the vouchers therefor with the comptroller of the State: 
keep an accurate record of all its proceedings and transactions, and shall sub- 
mit to the legislattire of 1910 a full and complete report thereof. It shall have 



14 ANNIVERSAEY OF DISCOVERY OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 

no power or authority to contract for the expenditure of any sum in excess of 
the amount herein appropriated, except such funds as have actually been paid 
Into its treasury by public or private contribution for the erection of a memorial 
as herein provided, and it shall keep an accurate account of the receipt and dis- 
bursement of such contributions, if any, and include the same in its report to 
the legislature. 

Sec. 5. The sum of $100,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, is hereby 
appropriated, out of any moneys not othervi^ise appropriated, for the purposes of 
this act, and payments shall be made by the State treasurer to the treasurer of 
such commission on the warrant of the State comptroller on the requisition of 
the cliairman of such commission. In addition to the sum herein appropriated, 
the commission is authorized and empowered to receive and expend public and 
private contributions for any of the purposes hereinbefore set forth. 
Sec. 6. This act shall take effect immediately. 
The foregoing is respectfully submitted. 

Charles E. Hughes. 
Lewis Stuyvesant Chanler. 
Henry W. Hill. 
John C. R. Taylor, 
J. W. Wadsworth, Jr. 
Alonson T. Dominy. 
James A. Foley. 
Frank S. Witherbee. 
John H. Booth. 
Frank H. Severance, 

Secretary. 
Albany, March 23, 1908. 



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